Troy House Fire: Three Family Members Die in September 2026 Blaze; Teen Son Escapes
A devastating house fire in Troy, New York, claimed the lives of three members of the Rizzo family in September 2026. The victims were 37-year-old Dominick Rizzo Jr., his 39-year-old fiancée, Alicia Ruefle, and their 11-year-old daughter, Abigail Rizzo.
The fire broke out on Sunday evening, September 27, at the family’s home on 13th Street. Emergency crews responded after reports of a heavy fire with people trapped inside.
According to local reporting, firefighters rescued the three family members from the second floor. Despite receiving medical attention, Dominick, Alicia and Abigail later died from injuries sustained in the fire.
Their 13-year-old son, Dominick Rizzo III, survived after escaping through a second-floor window. Reports indicated that he did not suffer serious physical injuries.
The fire also killed seven dogs belonging to the family. Three dogs reportedly survived, while two Troy firefighters sustained minor burn injuries and were treated.
Investigation Into the Fire
Troy Fire Chief Richard Cellucci said preliminary findings suggested that the fire began on the first floor of the residence. The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control was involved in the investigation.
Officials had not established the definitive cause of the blaze. Questions were also raised about whether the home had functioning smoke detectors.
Community Mourns the Rizzo Family
The deaths deeply affected the Troy community, including the Troy City School District, where both children were students. City officials and school representatives expressed condolences and said support services would be available to those affected.
The family’s loss prompted an outpouring of community support, including fundraising efforts to assist the surviving child and relatives.
The September 27 fire remains a tragic event for the family and the wider Troy community. Its precise cause should not be described as established unless investigators release further findings.